Maritime Agencies
NIMASA DG Hosts Maritime Media, Highlights Broad Policy Initiatives For Implementation.
By Izuchukwu Ozoemena
The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) has no plans whatsoever to recall over 300 Nigerian cadets undergoing training at the Centurion University, India, under the National Seafarers’ Development Programme (NSDP). Instead, the agency is committed to ensure that the cadets are adequately trained and well-prepared to be employable anywhere in the world as they graduate.
Dr Dayo Mobereola
NIMASA Director-General, Dr Dayo Mobereola stated this in Lagos, Monday, during his maiden interactive session with members of the maritime media, following his appointment last April.
“We have not decided to bring those students back home,” he announced.
“What we are doing is reviewing how the school has been engaged. Is it in the students’ best interest? Will they be well-prepared graduates who are employable by the industry?”, the DG argued.
“These are the issues on our table right now, and we deliberate on them daily. I assure you that when we develop the best approach, it will be clear that we are acting in the cadets’ best interest, not our own,” he added.
NIMASA’s aim, he added, is that the young, vibrant and intelligent cadets return to Nigeria fully prepared to contribute to the development of the maritime sector.
“We want to ensure that the platform for them is right, and that is what we are working towards. When we present our plan, you will recognize that it is in the best interest of both the nation and the students”.
Speaking on the NIMASA 2007Act now undergoing review, the DG spoke about the status of maritime infrastructure which includes boats and vessels, assuring that provision is being made to include regulations for all from large vessels to small boats. He focussed on the smaller vessels that are often used for illicit activities such as piracy and sea robberies.
“In the new bill, we aim to ensure that every boat on our waters is regulated, registered, and monitored,” he stated.
On concerns about non-disbursement of the Cabotage Vessel Financing Fund (CVFF), the DG cautioned for care in planning and execution to avoid the mistakes of the past.
“We are looking at opportunities to ensure that when we start to dispose the CVFF, it will be for the benefit of shipping promotion in Nigeria,” he said.
He cautioned against repeating past mistakes whereby loan beneficiaries failed to make refunds, an act that ran contrary to the motive of enhancing the fortunes of ship owners and shipping development .
“In the past, resources were given to the wrong people, and there was no benefit to the nation or to ship owners who were contributing.
We would be doing ourselves an injustice if we didn’t consider what is happening now, both in Nigeria and internationally, before we start disbursing the CVFF.” the DG said. He noted that the CVFF is not only about vessels but steady availability of cargo for vessels to make revenue for the sector.
On relationship with coastal states, the DG confirmed full presence in Bayelsa with Delta in view. Engagement with other coastal states, he promised, would depend on the peculiarities.
Reacting to concerns that sourcing information and data from NIMASA is problematic as staff in charge do not cooperate, Mobereola placed on record the important role journalists play as worthy partners, acknowledging their contributions to shaping public perception and holding the agency accountable.
According to the DG, what is most important is data and knowledge- sharing.
“If we do not provide you with accurate information that we have spent time and knowledge collecting, we cannot expect you to report accurately,” he noted.
He also promised improvements in media relations, including the training of maritime media practitioners. Provision for this, he indicated, is already made in the 2024 budget. Remuneration for media professionals covering the sector, he announced, is under review to reflect the agency’s commitment to foster a mutually beneficial relationship with the press.
The DG urged the media stakeholders to continue raising industry issues and comparing them with international best practices.
“When you speak, it is perceived as being in the industry’s best interest. I encourage you to continue raising these subjects, comparing them with international best practices, and advising us on what the NPA and Shippers’ Council should be doing,” he said.
On maritime safety, the DG said: “We are collaborating with our sister agency, NIWA, to come up with strategies to ensure safety both in deep waters and in the areas NIWA controls,” he explained.
He recalled the core mandate of NIMASA which is safety, a goal collaboration is crucial in achieving . “Safety is one of our core mandates, and I will be judged on it.”
He announced that going forward, NIMASA’s vessel registration processes would be automated.
By Izuchukwu Ozoemena
A change of leadership took place at the Tincan Command of the Nigeria Customs Service, Friday, when the outgoing Customs Area Controller, now-ACG Joe Anani handed over to Deputy Controller Emmanuel Ekok.
”Today marks another significant milestone in my career and service to the Nigeria Customs Service,” ACG Anani stated, “as I formally hand over the leadership and responsibilities of Tincan Island Port Command, following my elevation to the prestigious rank of Assistant Comptroller-General of Customs.”
He described his tenure as an opportunity to contribute meaningfully to the institutional mandate of the Nigeria Customs Service, particularly in the areas of revenue generation, trade facilitation, anti-smuggling operations, enforcement and national economic development.
Expressing profound appreciation to the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR, PhD, dsm, FNIPR, psc (+), the Management of the Service and the entire leadership for the opportunity to serve, he said his elevation to the rank of Assistant Comptroller-General is a further testament to the opportunities for growth and professional development within the Service.
On the achievements recorded in the Command while he was at the helm, he attributed these to teamwork, commitment, institutional support and the dedication of officers and men of the Command.
ACG Anani departing Tincan Island Port Customs Command
”Revenue generation remained a key priority, and from the moment I assumed duty, the Command pursued deliberate measures to boost collection through improved compliance, closer monitoring, more efficient operations and stronger stakeholder engagement. These efforts yielded appreciable growth in the Command’s revenue profile, reinforcing our commitment to the Nigeria Customs Service’s revenue mandate and to national economic development.
Arising from the foregoing, he explained, between May and October 2026, the Command generated a total revenue of ₦787,234,144,911.15.
”In anti-smuggling and enforcement, the Command recorded notable successes through the interception and seizure of illicit and prohibited items, including narcotics, dangerous drugs, arms and ammunition. Under my leadership, the Command intercepted about 603 shotguns and 14,862.75kg of Cannabis Indica, among other significant seizures. These operations reflect our resolve to protect society, safeguard public health, strengthen national security and prevent harmful goods from entering the country.”
Acting ACG Anani was full of commendation for officers whose vigilance, courage and professionalism made these achievements possible.
”Furthermore, the welfare and general well-being of officers and men remained an important consideration throughout my tenure. I recognize that the effectiveness of any Command depends not only on its operational capacity but also on the welfare, motivation and morale of its personnel. We therefore made efforts to encourage a supportive working environment, promote unity and strengthen the sense of belonging among officers and men. I firmly believe that investing in personnel welfare is an investment in institutional productivity and service delivery.
”These achievements, among others, are not personal accomplishments. They are the collective results of the commitment, sacrifices and contributions of the entire Command. I therefore dedicate every success recorded during my tenure to the officers and men who worked tirelessly to move the Command forward,” Anani said.
He appreciated all stakeholders and sister agencies, port and terminal operators, shipping companies, licensed customs agents and other critical partners for cooperating with and supporting the Command throughout his tenure.
He told his successor, Deputy Comptroller of Customs EA Ekok, that he was taking over a strategic Command with enormous responsibilities and opportunities.
”I encourage you to build on the existing achievements, strengthen operational efficiency, promote discipline and professionalism, deepen stakeholder engagement and sustain the drive towards improved revenue collection, effective trade facilitation and robust anti-smuggling operations.”
In his response, Acting Deputy Comptroller Emmanuel Ekok, while thanking the Customs Comptroller General, Dr Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR for finding him worthy of this national assignment, assured that he would justify the confidence reposed in him .
”It is with great humility, profound gratitude to Almighty God and a strong commitment to service that I present myself before you today on this important occasion of my assumption of duty as the new Area Controller of the Tin Can Island Port Area Command. My deepest appreciation goes to the Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service, who doubles as the Chairperson of the World Customs Organization Council, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, Ph.D., MFR for finding me worthy of this appointment and entrusting me with the responsibility of leading this strategic gateway for national revenue generation and maritime trade. I do not take this confidence for granted and see it as a call to greater service and commitment to the Nation.
He assured the Comptroller-General that he would do his utmost to justify the confidence reposed in him.
”Our administration will firmly align with the strategic policy thrust of the CGC, which is centered on Consolidation, Collaboration and Innovation, alongside core focus areas in revenue optimization, trade facilitation, robust enforcement and strict discipline.
” I also wish to sincerely appreciate my predecessor, the outgoing Customs Area Controller, Comptroller Joseph Anani, now prepared to assume higher responsibilities as an Assistant Comptroller General of Customs, for the warm reception accorded me and the smooth transition process. I commend him and his management team for the solid foundation laid and impressive milestones recorded during his tenure. Sir, we shall consolidate on your achievements, sustain the positive momentum and ensure continued success.” he said
”To our distinguished stakeholders, including licensed customs agents, importers and terminal operators, I sincerely appreciate your presence.
DC Ekok assured the Command’s stakeholders of an open door and a transparent partnership.
”While we will provide an enabling environment and seamless cargo clearance procedures for compliant traders to reduce cargo dwell times, we will maintain zero tolerance for false declarations, duty evasion or any attempt to compromise national security. Violators will face the full weight of the law.
”Inter-agency collaboration remains a critical pillar of our operations. I look forward to deepening our partnerships with sister government agencies and port regulators through timely intelligence sharing to ensure comprehensive security.”
He reminded officers and men of the Command that discipline remains the bedrock of professional customs administration. While demanding absolute integrity, punctuality and professional excellence from every officer, he warned against indiscipline, insubordination, neglect of duty, abuse of office and corruption.
Maritime Agencies
Maritime Industry Bigwigs Pledge to Attend the Network of Nigerian Maritime Journalists (NNMJ) Unity Conference.
By Izuchukwu Ozoemena
As the Network of Nigeria Maritime Journalists (NNMJ) unveils “Seaport Modernisation, Trade Facilitation and Revenue” as the theme of her unification conference scheduled for November 13 in Lagos , several prominent personalities in Nigeria’s maritime industry and political landscape have indicated interest to attend.
These include the former Minister of Interior, Capt. Emmanuel Iheanacho; Senator Wasiu Eshilokun; former President of the National Association of Government Approved Freight Forwarders (NAGAFF), Dr. Eugene Nweke; and Dr. Kayode Farinto, former Acting National President of ANLCA.
Also participating are key policymakers, heads of maritime agencies, industry leaders, legal practitioners, freight forwarders and other critical stakeholders whose voices cannot be ignored while deliberating on the future of Nigeria’s maritime sector.
Former Director-General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Barrister Temisan Omatseye, will chair the conference, while the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, His Excellency Adegboyega Oyetola, will attend as Special Guest of Honour.
Renowned maritime lawyer, Barrister Emeka Akabogu, SAN, will deliver the keynote address at the event which takes place at Airport Hotel, Ikeja.
Discussions will particularly focus on ongoing reforms, infrastructure development and strategic interventions required to strengthen the maritime industry’s contribution to national economic growth.
According to Elder Dele Aderibigbe and Jerry Aguigbo, the NNMJ President and Public Relations Officer respectively, the conference will provide an avenue for constructive engagement among government representatives, maritime professionals and private-sector operators on practical measures to reposition Nigeria’s maritime industry for improved efficiency, productivity and global competitiveness.
Seaport modernisation, rehabilitation and renewal of critical port infrastructure, trade facilitation, ease of doing business, revenue optimisation and strategies for identifying and eliminating financial leakages across the maritime value chain will form key discussion points at the Unity Conference.
Participants will also examine opportunities for expanding Nigeria’s marine and blue economy, generating employment, strengthening maritime safety and security, and enhancing the competitiveness of the nation’s seaports.
The conference is expected to attract heads of government agencies, managing directors of shipping companies, terminal operators, freight forwarders, licensed customs agents and other influential stakeholders across the maritime industry.
The Unity Conference also avails stakeholders opportunity to evaluate existing government policies and reforms, identify implementation gaps and recommend sustainable solutions to improve port operations, facilitate legitimate trade, increase government revenue and unlock the vast economic potentials of Nigeria’s maritime sector.
The organizers further underscored the strategic importance of maritime journalism in promoting transparency and accountability, providing credible industry analysis and sustaining informed public discourse on government policies, regulatory interventions and reforms affecting the marine and blue economy.
The NNMJ leadership expressed confidence that the conference would strengthen relationships among industry stakeholders, encourage meaningful policy engagement and reinforce collective efforts towards building a more efficient, transparent and globally competitive maritime industry.
Maritime Agencies
AMANO Advocates Rapid Growth in Nigeria’s Maritime Sector, Holds National Convention
By Izuchukwu Ozoemena
As the 2026 National Convention and Stakeholders’ engagement of the Alumni of the Maritime Academy of Nigeria, Oron (AMANO) kicks off November 12 – 14, the
body has called for accelerated reforms and development in Nigeria’s maritime capacity training sector to ensure job creation for graduating cadets.
The convention will bring together maritime professionals, policymakers, regulators and shipowners, academics, cadets and other stakeholders for high-level deliberations on the future of the industry.
Speaking during a pre-event briefing in Lagos, Saturday, AMANO President, Mr. Emmanuel Maiguwa described the conference as a platform for policy alignment, innovation and practical solutions as it is more than a re+union of alumni.
This year’s convention, Maiguwa explained, is deliberately focused on moving from talk to action — with emphasis on reforms that can be implemented in maritime education, shipping, port operations, safety and blue economy development.
The convention will also provide an opportunity to introduce newly graduated cadets of MAN, Oron and their lecturers to maritime companies, institutions and stakeholders thus expanding their exposure to professional and employment opportunities.
Maiguwa had at the Academy’s 2026 Cadets Passing-Out Parade last week, urged graduands to embrace networking, professional development and mentorship as essential tools for building successful careers and invited them to the Lagos convention.
As part of its commitment to excellence, AMANO also announced cash awards of ₦150,000 each for Best HND Graduating Cadet and Best ND Graduating Cadet.
Stakeholders say the 2026 convention is coming at a critical time when Nigeria is pushing to unlock its blue economy, modernise its ports, strengthen its participation in the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and translate maritime policies into measurable results.
The three-day event is expected to feature keynote addresses, panel sessions, technical workshops, exhibitions and networking sessions, with recommendations to be presented to government and industry for implementation.
LEADERSHIP CHANGE: ACG Anani Hands over to DC Ekok at Tincan Customs.
Maritime Industry Bigwigs Pledge to Attend the Network of Nigerian Maritime Journalists (NNMJ) Unity Conference.
AMANO Advocates Rapid Growth in Nigeria’s Maritime Sector, Holds National Convention
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Maritime Agencies1 week agoOUTSTANDING LEADERSHIP: NAWOJ Lagos Honours Omowole, NAN’s Managing Editor.
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Maritime Agencies3 weeks agoDredgers’ Body Disowns Report Alleging Extortion Against Lagos Commissioner Alebiosu, Cardoso.
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Maritime Agencies1 week agoCustoms FOU Zone ‘A’ Hits Smugglers Hard, Confiscates 23, 220 Matchettes, Other Contrabands Worth over N6.19bn.
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Maritime Agencies2 weeks agoOyetola, Omatseye, Akabogu, Other Dignitaries To Attend Network of Nigerian Maritime Journalists Unity Conference in Lagos.
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Maritime Agencies2 weeks agoSCAN SUMMIT, 2026: Conversion to Earn Higher Interest Rates, the Bane of the CVFF, Omatseye says.
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Maritime Agencies6 days agoAMANO Advocates Rapid Growth in Nigeria’s Maritime Sector, Holds National Convention
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Maritime Agencies6 days ago
Maritime Industry Bigwigs Pledge to Attend the Network of Nigerian Maritime Journalists (NNMJ) Unity Conference.
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Maritime Agencies5 hours agoLEADERSHIP CHANGE: ACG Anani Hands over to DC Ekok at Tincan Customs.